The National Youth Wing of the ruling New Patriotic Party is advocating for their Presidential Candidate for the 2024 elections, H.E. Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to select Energy Minister and Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, commonly known as NAPO, as his running mate.
In an article penned by Deputy National Youth Organizer of the NPP, Isaac Jay Nii Amahtey Hyde, titled “Ensuing Debate of Who Best Pairs DMB,” he asserts that it’s imperative for the NPP to choose NAPO as the running mate to their Flagbearer.
According to Mr Hyde, the challenging task of #Breakingthe8 demands not only a candidate who adds to the numbers of the flagbearer but one with a proven track record and the ability to deliver results.
“One that answers the concerns of Ghanaians today, just like our current flagbearer resonated with voters in 2016 and 2020 on matters of the Economy. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh has demonstrated overtime is ability to cause change and deliver when it matters most. As a National Officer of the party, I’ve touched base with the grassroots and there’s no one in the NPP today, whose charisma energizes the base than Napo” he wrote.
“Bold and Decisive; His assertive nature makes him unconventional to what is ordinarily perceived of our politicians “sweet talkers”. Napo is blunt and very trustworthy. Engagement and Negotiation Skills; Napo’s ability to listen well and engage extensively has endeared him to various stakeholders. Throughout my service with him as NUGS President and as far as I remember there was never a strike by any group within the sector.
“He successfully delivered our major policy headliner in the last two National elections ie. Free SHS. He has something relatable to account for his stewardship. The implementation of the Double Track concept to ensure that no Ghanaian child was left behind in the FSHS agenda was a master stroke. He led the successful transition of in-person classroom teaching to online successfully in the advent of the COVID pandemic, at a time when online infrastructure and capacity of lecturers in most schools was almost nonexistent.
“His ingenuity led the GETFUND securitization that provided the needed funds for infrastructure development to mitigate facility user challenges that initially bedeviled this brilliant initiative. Napo is simply a doer!” he said
Political analyst Emmanuel Nti has expressed his view that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s presentation on his policies and vision for Ghana amounted to betrayal and anti-party behavior.
In response to Bawumia’s outlined policies, Nti argued that the Vice President distanced himself from the problems caused by President Akufo-Addo. He claimed that if an ordinary party member had criticized the government and opposed initiatives like the E-levy, emissions tax, VAT on electricity, and other taxes that the NPP candidate pledged to scrap, they would have faced expulsion from the party.
During an interview on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5 FM, Nti pointed out that individuals like Hopeson Adorye and lawyer Buaben Asomoa were dismissed for anti-party behavior, suggesting that others would have faced similar consequences if they had followed Bawumia’s path.
When asked whether it was fair to blame the Vice President, who primarily played an advisory role and may not have been responsible for the government’s challenges, Nti disagreed.“The president told Ghanaians that Bawumia was experienced and understood the economy better”.
On the flip side, if this is indeed his stance, it suggests a distancing from the President’s decisions and a lack of receptiveness to advice. This implies that the President may not heed counsel.
However, he also suggests another angle to consider: that it might be a deliberate tactic by the party to present Bawumia as faultless to garner votes. This strategy aims to shield Bawumia from any criticism and forms part of a larger political maneuver by the NPP.
“If an NPP communicator can defend E-levy and the whole Vice President opposes it, then there is a problem. These are the realities I am talking about. If any member had made the same remark the Vice President made, that party member would have been sanctioned or sacked from the NPP because what Bawumia said was a betrayal of the party.”
“Even an NPP communicator will defend E-levy and point out reasons why it should not be scrapped. The communicator will defend the E-levy with all their strength. And a whole vice president says he will scrap it. That is pure betrayal of the party. If communicators will defend it, why should the vice president promise to scrap it? So you think Justin Kodua and other officials would not have suspended a party member if they had made these remarks? Hopespn Adorye, Buaben Asamoa, and others were sacked. So why has the party failed to sack Bawumia, just like those they sacked recently?”
The speaker thinks that the recent occurrences could be part of a planned NPP plot to clear Bawumia’s name and present him as a perfect candidate.
The Chief Executive Officer of the State Transport Corporation (STC), Nana Akomea, expressed confidence that Ghanaians would have no regrets in keeping the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in power, especially with Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the president.
This assurance comes in the aftermath of the Bawumia Speak conference, where the NPP flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, unveiled his visions for the country on February 7, 2024, with a focus on the 2025 leadership.
Nana Akomea, speaking on NEAT FM’s morning show, ‘Ghana Montie,’ conveyed his optimism about Dr. Bawumia’s ideologies presented in his ‘Bold Solution’ address, emphasizing the potential for reshaping Ghana under the NPP’s leadership.
In comparing Dr. Bawumia to former president Mahama, Nana Akomea asserted that such a comparison would be inappropriate. He highlighted Dr. Bawumia’s fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, contrasting them with what he described as the lack of concrete policies from Mahama in his bid for the presidency once again.
“Bawumia is new and brings new ideas, Mahama is a former president and has nothing to offer,” he said.
Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has underscored the importance of maximizing the benefits derived from Ghana’s abundant natural resources to foster job creation, enhance livelihoods, and strengthen the domestic economy.
In light of Ghana’s significant gold reserves, Dr. Bawumia has proposed a legislative initiative that would ensure areas with confirmed gold deposits are exclusively owned by Ghanaian entities.
This policy, if enacted under his government’s leadership, aims to empower local ownership and control over valuable natural resources, thereby driving economic prosperity within the nation.
Furthermore, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the potential of this policy to bolster Ghana’s gold reserves substantially. By increasing these reserves, Ghana can achieve a level of financial stability that supports robust and sustainable external payments.
“My government will provide the Geological Survey Department and our universities with resources annually to undertake a mapping of areas where we have gold reserves.
“As a matter of policy, we will legislate that concessions in these areas with proven reserves will be 100% Ghanaian owned since with proven gold reserves, we can easily raise the capital required and hire the expertise,” Dr Bawumia said when he delivered a public lecture on February 7, 2024, at the UPSA.
Additionally, Dr. Bawumia highlighted his government’s intention, if elected, to collaborate with exploration experts from universities and geological institutions.
This partnership aims to harness the expertise of these professionals in exploring seven significant gold belts spanning from Axim and Winneba to Nangodi and Lawra.
“However, even if only 5% of this 5-billion-ounce estimate materializes, it will be a game changer for Ghana,” Dr Bawumia added.
According to data from the Geological Survey Department, Ghana boasts seven gold belts spanning an area of 43,000 square kilometers. Remarkably, approximately 50% of this area, totaling 21,000 square kilometers, remains unexplored.
Conservative estimates suggest that these unexplored belts hold a significant potential quantity of gold, estimated at around 5 billion ounces. This substantial reserve translates to a staggering market value of $10 trillion dollars at current market prices.
The Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Samuel Nartey George, has criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia‘s pledge to abolish the E-levy, equating it to a deceptive move aimed at NPP MPs who previously supported the tax implementation.
In a post on his X platform dated February 8, 2024, Sam George questioned the sentiments of the NPP MPs who enthusiastically applauded Bawumia’s announcement, highlighting the apparent contradiction in their positions.
Expressing skepticism, Sam George noted that Bawumia’s statement essentially implied that the MPs lacked foresight in their support for the E-levy, dismissing their arguments and debates as baseless.
“I have a question to ask my Colleague NPP MPs who were sitting in the UPSA Hall yesterday and clapping vigorously for the comical performance of Dr @MBawumia. How do you all feel after fighting the NDC MPs and walking out and insulting us over the e-Levy?
“Now Bawumia says you all are short-sighted and not critical in your thinking and analysis. He says your arguments and debates in favour of e-Levy are all bogus and useless. And you were clapping yesterday? Or you were not paying attention? Like I am trying to understand how you must be feeling. Anyway, Ken Ofori-Atta is still Finance Minister after all your complaints. We move,” he added.
I have a question to ask my Colleague NPP MPs who were sitting in the UPSA Hall yesterday and clapping vigorously for the comical performance of Dr @MBawumia.
How do you all feel after fighting the NDC MPs and walking out and insulting us over the e-Levy?
He specifically addressed the NPP MPs who had vehemently supported the tax, asking how they felt now that their candidate proposed its cancellation.
Despite their complaints about Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, Sam George concluded his post with a nonchalant “We move.”
“To move towards a cashless economy, however, we have to encourage the population to use electronic channels of payment. To accomplish this, there will be no taxes on digital payments under my administration. The e-levy will, therefore, be abolished,” he said at the UPSA auditorium on February 7.
Dr. Bawumia, who serves as both Vice President and the NPP’s flagbearer, had announced during a manifesto delivery at the UPSA auditorium on February 7 that, if elected President, he would eliminate the E-levy as part of a broader strategy to promote a cashless economy.
The Diaspora Patriotic Forum (DPF), a think tank affiliated with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) operating abroad, recently conducted an extensive week-long opinion poll regarding the NPP’s 2024 vice presidential candidacy.
Utilizing the secure Survey Monkey Polls tool, the survey garnered responses from 621 participants, revealing a clear preference for Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, commonly known as Napo, as the favored running mate to Dr. Bawumia.
Out of the 620 respondents, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh secured a commanding 42.42% of the vote, totaling 263 votes. This substantial support among NPP sympathizers, external branch members, and executives worldwide positions him as a leading candidate.
Following at a distance were Dr. Osei Yaw Adutwum (23.23%), Kennedy Ohene Agyapong (12.58%), and others, with 2.10% indicating a preference for none of the listed candidates.
The reasons behind the respondents’ preferences reflect their priorities. A significant 29.15% highlighted the need for a candidate who complements Dr. Bawumia, adding value to the ticket through political experience and innovative ideas. Additionally, 21.34% emphasized the importance of the candidate’s ability to attract floating voters.
Interestingly, religious and gender balance were not prominent factors among the diaspora NPP support base.
Empirical evidence from the poll, coupled with in-depth conversations with external branch executives and members, strongly suggests that Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the current Minister for Energy and Member of Parliament for Manhyia North, is the preferred NPP vice presidential candidate in the diaspora.
The survey underscores the Diaspora Patriotic Forum’s commitment to providing a platform for NPP members and sympathizers to voice their opinions on party matters and national development affairs.
While the ultimate decision rests with NPP presidential candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the overwhelming support for Napo expressed by the diaspora NPP community adds a significant dimension to the party’s considerations for the 2024 general elections.
The DPF serves as a voluntary think tank for the New Patriotic Party in the diaspora, providing credible and reliable information, education, policies, and research to support the broader political agenda of the NPP.
A lecturer at Pentecost University, Dr. Christopher Ampadu, advocates for retaining the compulsory nature of the National Service Scheme, citing its numerous benefits for the youth.
According to Dr. Ampadu, the National Service Scheme serves as both a source of employment and a learning platform for many individuals. Additionally, he highlights its role in instilling patriotism among the youth.
In an interview on JoyNews’, Dr. Ampadu expressed his conviction that national service should remain mandatory, emphasizing its importance in shaping the character and fostering a sense of national pride among young people.
“When we did National Service, it was public service and it was some kind of experience that I think I enjoyed because it gave me an opportunity to work with a chairman and to know his source and ways of serving the nation. For me it was very dedicational,” he added.
Dr. Ampadu’s remark comes in response to a suggestion by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who also serves as the flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), to make national service optional for graduates if elected as President in the upcoming general elections.
At his public lecture on Wednesday where he spoke about his vision for the country, Dr. Bawumia indicated that his government “will propose that those who after completion of their education can secure jobs would be exempted from National Service”.
“National Service will no longer be mandatory and students will have the option to decide whether to do National Service. This will also encourage companies to go to campuses for recruitment annually,” he added.
Mr. Ampadu further noted that in the current job market, companies increasingly prioritize hiring individuals with practical experience. He emphasized that making national service optional, as proposed by Dr. Bawumia, could exacerbate youth unemployment, particularly considering the existing challenges in job creation.
“If we don’t make it mandatory, some people will have jobs, while others may be unemployed. Why don’t you put them through national service, because it helps them to be patriotic,” he said.
During his address to the nation on February 7, Vice President and flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, made some pronouncements that some schools of thought believe were hints of registering his disagreement with the government he is a part of.
Prior to Dr Bawumia’s address, there were claims that there was some sort of friction between himself and some individuals in the NPP administration, including Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.
Political analyst, Yaw Asani Tanoh claimed in an interview on Neat FM that the Finance Minister and other individuals who one way or the other are affiliated with the Akyems had ganged up on the Vice President, immobilizing him from carrying out any meaningful initiative or making any important decision.
Now, a scrutiny of Dr Bawumia’s vision for Ghana should he be elected President after the 2024 elections has given the indication that he did not agree with all the decisions which were taken by President Akufo-Addo, giving credence to reports of a rift in the ruling government.
Bloated govt – 50 ministers
Currently, President Akufo-Addo governs the country with over 60 ministers, including their deputies. There have been several calls for a lean government to cut down government expenditure. Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has pledged to work with 60 ministers in his next government.
To the surprise of many, Dr Bawumia has indicated that he will work with 50 ministers. It is fair to interpret that Dr Bawumia is not pleased with the number of ministers appointed by his boss, President Akufo-Addo.
“The move towards the private sector provision of many public services would create fiscal space of at least 3% of GDP.
“This represents a major paradigm shift. Additionally, an efficient system of governance will require even fewer ministers. Therefore I would have no more than 50 ministers and deputy ministers,’’ he said.
Scrap e-levy
The Electronic Transfer Levy Act, 2022, was passed by a Majority-sided Parliament with the aim of regulating and imposing a levy on all electronically transferred monies in Ghana.
This move was part of the government’s efforts to broaden the country’s tax base and increase revenue mobilization. Initially, the levy was set at 1.50% on all electronic transfers, but following criticism from the Minority in Parliament and the general public, the government revised the rate to 1 percent.
Many Ghanaians demanded that the Vice President make known his stance on the levy since he in the past, protested against taxing electronic transactions.
For over a year, Dr Bawumia was silent until February 7, 2024. Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia plans to scrap the e-levy if given the nod to become president, implying that he was never in support of its passing.
“To move towards a cashless economy however, we have to encourage the population to use electronic channels of payment. To accomplish this, there will be no taxes on digital payments under my administration. The e-levy will therefore be abolished,” he said.
Addressing the nation at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra today, the Vice President noted that the removal of the levy will aid government’s cashless economy agenda.
Praised governor of BoG and not Ken Ofori-Atta
In his address, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia called upon Ghanaians to commend and acknowledge the efforts of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), which has faced unwarranted criticism while undertaking essential measures to stabilize the economy.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted the pivotal role played by the central bank in extending crucial financial support to the government during a critical period, preventing the economy from veering towards collapse.
“What the Bank of Ghana did was very responsible, in putting the interest of the good citizens of Ghana first”, he said.
In his speech, Dr Bawumia only mentioned Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta when he disclosed his role, that of the Finance Minister and the Bank of Ghana Governor, Dr Ernest Addison.
“So, when we assumed office in 2017, as Vice-President, I made the decision, with the blessings and support of the President, to focus on the critical but underdeveloped systems that would expand the economy, improve systems, and create jobs through digitalisation.”
“Therefore, as the Minister of Finance oversees the budget (fiscal policy) and the Governor of the central bank also focused on monetary and exchange rate policy, I focused on the complementary data and systems improvement that would ensure the ease of doing business and change the fundamentals of the economy, making it more dynamic and responsive to modern trends, and the management of it more scientific and efficient,” he said.
Scrap excessive taxes
The current NPP government has been accused of working with current tax regime that represents the most severe and punitive in the nation’s history.
Parliament on Friday night [Dec 22] approved five tax bills aimed at helping the government to rake in additional revenue to the state as well as the Appropriation Bill, 2023.
They are the Value Added Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023, Excise Duty (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 2023, Stamp Duty (Amendment) Bill, 2023 Emissions Levy Bill, 2023 and Exemptions (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
Later, government introduced the gambling tax of 10% on all winnings in 2023, emissions levy for engine vehicles which has motorists paying between GHC75 and GHC300. Government also announced a 15% VAT on electricity.
The last three taxes were heavily contended. Prior to his address, the Vice President had not commented on the implementation of these taxes.
Now, Dr Bawumia says he will scrap these taxes if he becomes president.
“Taxes on gambling will be scrapped under my administration. There will be no emissions tax under my administration. 15% tax on electricity will be abolished by 2025 if it’s still on our administration,” he said.
After the Vice President’s address, the Ministry of Finance noted that government has suspended the introduction of the 15% VAT on electricity.
Review NSS
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is also the flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has pledged to make National Service optional if elected president.
The Scheme has been mandatory since 1973 and is being implemented by the current government. Government has had challenges paying National Service Personnel their allowances.
To address this challenge and the issue of unemployment, Vice President Bawumia says he will not make the scheme mandatory.
According to the Vice President, this will help the youth get jobs since companies will be encouraged to go to campuses for recruitment annually.
“National Service will no longer be mandatory. And students will have the option to decide whether to do national service or not,” the Vice President said.
Ningo-Prampram’s Member of Parliament (MP), Sam George, has expressed his steadfast stance against what he perceives as unfulfilled promises by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, emphasizing a lack of tolerance for deceit.
In an interview with GhanaWeb, Sam George cautioned Ghanaians against being misled by Bawumia’s statements, utilizing the Nigerian slang ‘no gree for anybody’ to convey the importance of not succumbing to manipulation or deception.
Citing instances where he believes Bawumia has fallen short, Sam George pointed to the disputed claim of digitizing corruption at the passport office, challenging the authenticity of Bawumia’s digitization assertions.
He also criticized the repeated promises made by Bawumia regarding Ghana Card numbers for children from birth, highlighting the inconsistency in the announcements.
Sam George went on to question Bawumia’s credibility, citing unfulfilled promises such as the construction of 350 schools and the delay in providing laptops to teachers who had paid for them.
“When Dr. Bawumia talks, digitization has taken over corruption at the passport office, did you not see Minister for Foreign Affairs storm the place very angry to sack ‘goro boys’? So where was the digitization? Even that claim of digitization has been disputed by the Daily Graphic report of September 2016 when that project was launched. Even the fact-check Ghana has called Dr. Bawumia a liar for putting out such fake information. A man’s words are what you will judge him on. This is the same person who made promises that they will build 350 schools, promising tertiary student loan for laptops, meanwhile, he has taken money from teachers and they have not gotten their laptops yet.
“He promises that children will now get unique Ghana Card numbers from birth. This is a story that was first announced by Bawumia in November 2021. He again announced in April 2022, in June 2022, February 2023, and April 2023, so this is the 6th time Bawumia is making such a promise. The macro indicators Bawumia gave are false and misleading and you sit and ask who are his advisors.”
The Ningo-Prampram MP further stated that, “You say you are the one responsible for all digitization stuff yet you say, as for the E-Levy, I am not part of it. I mean this is a man we have come to know, to understand and recognize him for who he is, that he is a confident trickster, and he is someone who is going to trick the words and use fluency and eloquence bamboozle through Ghanaians. Right now, our eyes are open and this year, 2024, the motto is ‘no gree for anybody’ not even Bawumia and his lies.”
He criticized Bawumia’s role in the controversial E-Levy, emphasizing the contradictory statement that he is not part of it despite being responsible for digitization efforts.
The Ningo-Prampram MP characterized Bawumia as a “confident trickster” and urged Ghanaians to be wary of his eloquence and fluency in delivering promises. With the motto for 2024 being ‘no gree for anybody,’ Sam George conveyed a clear message of skepticism towards Bawumia and his alleged lies.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s Flagbearer, recently announced plans to abolish the E-Levy, Bet Tax, and Emissions Tax if elected as the President of Ghana.
This announcement follows the introduction of the controversial E-Levy in 2022, which had initially faced opposition from Bawumia.
Marking the 150th Anniversary of the Sagrenti War between the Asantes and the British Colonial Army in 1874, a grand durbar of chiefs convened in Asanteman on Thursday, February 8th.
Named “Kuntunkuni,” the commemorative durbar carried a distinctive tone, with the Asantehene and select traditional rulers clad in all-black attire, symbolizing the gravity of the historical event.
Distinguished political figures, including the Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama; the Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia; and the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, graced the occasion.
Paramount chiefs, sub-divisional chiefs, and queen mothers from the Ashanti Kingdom added to the significance of the event, creating a gathering of cultural and political prominence.
Social media shared visuals of the durbar, capturing the vibrant display of Akan tradition and cultural heritage showcased during the event.
The arrival of Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, marked a pinnacle moment, bringing the durbar to a temporary standstill. His regal entrance, on a palanquin amidst spirited singing, drumming, and dancing, captivated the audience.
Edwesohemaa, Nana Yaa Asantewaa II, added to the spectacle with her entrance, arriving in a palanquin and firing into the sky.
The presence of the executioners of Asanteman (abrafoɔ) in their ancestral garb, one holding a decapitated fowl in a symbolic gesture, contributed to the visual richness of the event.
Notably, the durbar featured the formal presentation of Ashanti artifacts, including a royal stool belonging to Asantehene Kofi Karikari, the 10th Asantehene.
This presentation underscored the historical and cultural significance of the occasion, further cementing the link between past and present in the Ashanti Kingdom.
The Tema Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE), Yohane Amarh Ashitey, has commended Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for articulating his vision for the 2024 elections.
Expressing his thoughts on the impressive promises made by Dr. Bawumia during the Ghana’s Next Chapter address on February 7, 2024, Ashitey admitted to being pleasantly surprised.
While acknowledging Dr. Bawumia’s reputation for delivering inspiring vision statements, Ashitey emphasized the astonishing nature of the Vice President’s address, providing genuine hope for average Ghanaians.
“I mean, this is Dr. Bawumia and I knew we were going to get an inspiring vision statement from him, but even I must admit that what he delivered is mind blowing. Far beyond inspiration, Dr. Bawumia gave us real hope that the average Ghanaian can trust in”, the MCE said in an exclusive interview on the sidelines of the address.
In the address, Dr. Bawumia pledged to abolish the unpopular e-levy, recognizing its burden on the less privileged in society. He also outlined plans to reform the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to broaden the tax net, addressing the current imbalance where only a few taxpayers bear the burden.
Characterizing the current tax regime as outdated and inherited from colonial times, Dr. Bawumia highlighted existing loopholes that result in the GRA failing to collect approximately 13% of collectable tax, amounting to around GHC24 billion.
Mr Amarh Ashitey praised Dr. Bawumia’s commitment to closing these loopholes, foreseeing a positive impact on the need for future IMF borrowings or bailouts.
“Imagine that we are able to plug this loophole, there will never be the need to return to the IMF to borrow or undergo another bailout,” Amarh Ashitey said.
Additionally, the MCE lauded Dr. Bawumia’s announcements to abolish the proposed 15% tax on electricity, emission tax, and the betting tax, which has been a source of dissatisfaction for many Ghanaian youth.
In response to criticism, especially from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), regarding Dr. Bawumia’s reversal of taxes introduced by the Akufo-Addo government, Ashitey dismissed it as an attempt to use propaganda to conceal the discredited claim that Dr. Bawumia would be subservient to President Akufo-Addo if elected president.
According to Ashitey, Dr. Bawumia’s decisions demonstrate his autonomy and assertiveness, showcasing his genuine stance on issues that he may have disagreed with during his role as Vice President.
“We are seeing a vintage Dr. Bawumia who disagreed with many of the policies that were adopted by cabinet now asserting his own point of view on these issues. His decision to abolish e-levy, tax on betting, and tax on electricity shows you that he was against them but because he was not the president, was forced to endure them. Now that he is becoming his own man, we are seeing what really he wants for Ghanaians”, he said.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, also the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, has articulated a comprehensive vision for the mining sector aimed at enhancing regulation, particularly for small-scale miners, and safeguarding the environment.
Addressing the nation in Accra on Wednesday to present his vision for Ghana, Dr. Bawumia highlighted that approximately one million Ghanaians are involved in small-scale mining.
He emphasized the necessity of transitioning these miners towards responsible mining practices to generate more wealth and ensure environmental preservation.
“About one million people are engaged in small-scale mining. Our goal would be to help small-scale mining companies to grow into large-scale companies with capacity building and skills to access financing to acquire equipment.
“We can create many millionaires in the small-scale mining industry if we support them,” Dr Bawumia said.
“My government will support the Minerals Commission and key stakeholders to formalise the Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) sector with the objective of ensuring that the activities of the entire value chain are sustainably and responsibly done.”
In line with that, he said his government “would license all miners doing responsible mining. District mining committees, including chiefs, will provide initial temporary licenses to the miners.”
“As long as miners mine within the limits of their licenses, there will be no mining in river or water bodies, there will no longer be any seizure or burning of excavators.”
“I will fully decentralise the Minerals Commission as well as Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and ensure that they are present in all mining districts.”
Dr. Bawumia stated that under his administration, every Ghanaian engaged in small-scale mining would be registered under the Ghana Small Scale Miners Association using their Ghana Card.
“We will, in collaboration with the large mining companies, convert abandoned shafts into community mining schemes and open more new community mining schemes.”
Parliamentary candidate for Akuapem North under the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Sammi Awuku, has suggested the potential involvement of Ghanaian football iconAsamoah Gyan in both the campaign team and the prospective government of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
During an interview with Asempa FM regarding the economic address delivered by the NPP’s presidential aspirant on February 7, 2024, Awuku praised Gyan for attending the event.
When asked about Gyan’s presence, Awuku explained that the renowned footballer is a close associate of Dr. Bawumia and possesses substantial expertise in sports and sports-related investments.
“Watch out for him. Dr. Bawumia likes people with great ideas. He is his good friend, and so watch out for him; you will soon hear from him,” he said.
Sammi Awuku described Gyan as “one guy who has solid ideas and is an iconic figure. Love him or hate him.”
“He may never know. Now that he is in retirement and resting, he should come and show his prowess in politics,” he added.
Gyan’s presence has further fueled rumours of him being a member of the governing New Patriotic Party.
Asamoah Gyan has often been linked with the NPP, with reports that he has been preparing to contest the parliamentary seat on behalf of the party.
Initial reports linked him to the Weija-Gbawe Constituency after the MP for Bortianor Ngleshie Amanfro Constituency, Sylvester Tetteh, alleged that Gyan was being lobbied by the camp of Dr Bawumia to oust him from his role.
He later apologised toAsamoah Gyan and disclosed that no such plan existed by the Bawumia camp to have Gyan contest him.
The Member of Parliament for the Bekwai constituency in the Ashanti Region under the New Patriotic Party, Joe Osei-Owusu, has asserted that the Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, would consistently outshine the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) flagbearer for the 2024 election, John Dramani Mahama, in any direct comparison.
The NDC has consistently targeted the Vice President, criticizing him for the economic challenges in Ghana, alleging that he presented himself as an economic savior during his time in opposition and directed numerous jabs at the NDC and its leader.
The NDC specifically highlighted the escalating public debt, struggles of the Ghanaian cedi against major international currencies, and high inflation as indicators of the Vice President’s perceived incompetence.
They argued that his harsh criticism of similar issues during his opposition days has exposed his inadequacy.
In his role as the head of the government’s economic management team, the Vice President has not been exempt from blame for the failures of the NPP government.
However, speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on Monday, November 13, the First Deputy Speaker expressed confidence that Dr. Bawumia stands a brighter chance against the former President.
“Let’s not create the impression that the current government hasn’t done anything positive. I don’t subscribe to that. There have been shortcomings and difficulties on different fronts, it’s a fact, and that’s a reality that we face. And he [Bawumia] as a Vice President, would have to carry some of that.”
Responding to the host’s query about Dr. Bawumia’s chances in the 2024 polls, he stated, “Very bright.”
He emphasized that although some people may vote based on party and its symbol, an evaluation considering their independent roles in the past would favor Dr. Bawumia when placed against Mahama.
The assessment would consider their past actions, ideas, implementation efforts, and their quality of person and integrity.
In a recent interview on Joy, former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyapong downplayed attempts to attribute the challenges of the incumbent NPP administration largely to the Vice President and now flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Mr Agyapong suggested that comparing Bawumia, who has not been a President, to John Mahama, who has served as both Vice President and President, would not be fair.
He stressed that the Vice President does not bear ultimate responsibility, and there have been areas where the government can be proud and others that need improvement.
Mr Agyapong emphasized that Dr. Bawumia’s ability to implement a transformative vision would be the key differentiator.
National Youth Organizer of the opposition NDC, George Opare Addo, also known as Pablo, has made mockery of the Vice President’s vision to take Ghana to a place of recovery, where the current NPP administration led by President Akufo-Addo failed to,
While addressing the nation, Dr Bawumia drew an analogy between his current role as Vice-President and that of a driver’s mate, emphasizing that with the constitutional authority vested in the president, he envisions assuming the proverbial “driver’s seat” to steer the nation towards progress.
Dr Bawumia therefore urged electorates to vote for him in the 2024 general to enable him obtain the position of president, where he can take an active role in Ghana’s transformation.
Reacting to this on CitiNews, remained skeptical of the role Vice President Bawumia could play to reverse Ghana’s economic challenges which have been exacerbated during his government.
Following Dr Bawumia’s anology, he noted that the driver, being President Akufo-Addo, has already given up in his quest to transform Ghana, hence, his “mate” could come no where close to fixing what has been broken.
“When the President of the Republic has already thrown in the towel is it the driver’s mate that will get us back on to the road? Akufo-Addo himself has told us it is game over,” he said.
In August 2023, Addressing the media after casting his vote at the New Patriotic Party’s Super Delegates Congress, President Akufo-Addo expressed his confidence in the Ghanaian people’s ability to choose a leader who can navigate the country through these difficult times.
“It’s difficult, I’m the first to admit it. I have said it several times, but at the end of the day I believe when the moment comes, Ghanaians will reflect on who best to get us out of this difficulty and take us to the next stage,” he said, implying that not much could be done by the current government.
George Opare Addo also known as Pablo, has also criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for not starting his address to the nation with an apology to Ghanaians for failing to deliver on numerous promises made prior to winning the elections in 2016.
Speaking at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra, Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the challenges faced by Ghanaians across various sectors.
He openly confessed to the hardships experienced by citizens, including soaring food prices, a sharp depreciation of the exchange rate, escalating fuel costs, and increased transportation fares.
Furthermore, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the adverse effects of the government’s debt restructuring program on bond holders, who suffered significant losses in their net worth.
On the country’s exchange rate depreciation, the Vice President noted that the loss of the local currency has slowed down sharply since February 2023.
George Opare Addo noted that the acknowledgment by the Vice President is not enough to assuage the hearts of many Ghanaians who cast their ballots for the NPP and the entire public.
“Our situation is worse and what I was expected Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to do was apologize to the good people of this country.
We deserve an apology from Bawumia. The kind of things he said, the lies he told, the promises he made. You make all these promises, you don’t fulfill them and you have the nerves and effrontery to stand before us,” he said.
The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia-led government promised to address Ghana’s currency depreciation and inflation, among others, but failed to do so.
National Youth Organizer of the NDC, George Opare Addo, believes that Vice-President @MBawumia should have started his address by apologizing to Ghanaians for failing to fulfill his numerous promises prior to winning the elections in 2016
National Communications Officer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has raised concerns over Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s attempts to distance himself from certain government policies.
In his view, both President Akufo-Addo and the vice president should be held accountable for the current challenges facing the country.
“How can Kabiru in one breath say that Bawumia was a mere agent and hence can not take liability or blame for the failures of Principal, yet in another breath they give Bawumia credit for the success of the Principal?
“Why is Bawumia being credited for one constituency one ambulance, agenda 111, why? Why is that the case? They are not saying that the credit should go to Akufo-Addo because Bawumia was a mere agent. Hypocrite, that is what they are,” he said on Joy FM’s Top Story on February 8.
Sammy Gyamfi’s remarks come in response to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s call for Ghanaians to elevate him from the role of a “driver’s mate” to that of a “driver.”
This analogy suggests a desire for increased responsibility and authority within the government. Additionally, Dr. Tiah Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, the Vice President’s Technical Advisor, has argued that Dr. Bawumia’s role is primarily advisory, implying limitations in his ability to effect substantial change as he is not the President.
On the back of this, Mr Gyamfi said “If the Vice President is a mere advisor, he is a mere agent, then my question is this, ‘how come in 2016, Dr Bawumia directed 170 questions to then Vice President and Chairman of the Economic Management Team, Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur?
“Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur was vice? Was he not a mere agent of John Mahama per their logic?”
Sammy Gyamfi expressed frustration at the National Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer’s apparent marginalization of President Akufo-Addo in his pursuit of political power.
“Akufo-Addo is looking like a lonely old man. I am just feeling pity for him. This is the time that his Vice President whom he entrusted with the management of the economy has to stand by him and say look we take collective responsibility. We have failed, we could have done things better, we have failed,” he added.
National Communications Officer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has expressed frustration at the National Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer’s apparent marginalization of President Akufo-Addo in his pursuit of political power.
He has raised concerns over Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s attempts to distance himself from certain government policies that have not been successful and pin them on his boss, President Akufo-Addo.
In his view, both the President and Vice President should be held accountable for the current challenges facing the country.
“How can Kabiru in one breath say that Bawumia was a mere agent and hence can not take liability or blame for the failures of Principal, yet in another breath they give Bawumia credit for the success of the Principal?
“Why is Bawumia being credited for one constituency one ambulance, agenda 111, why? Why is that the case? They are not saying that the credit should go to Akufo-Addo because Bawumia was a mere agent. Hypocrite, that is what they are,” he said on Joy FM’s Top Story on February 8.
Vice President Dr. Bawumia’s policies seem to shift all blame onto President Akufo-Addo, whom he believes has been abandoned.
According to him, “Akufo-Addo is looking like a lonely old man. I am just feeling pity for him. This is the time that his Vice President whom he entrusted with the management of the economy has to stand by him and say look we take collective responsibility. We have failed, we could have done things better, we have failed,” he added.
Sammy Gyamfi’s remarks come in response to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s call for Ghanaians to elevate him from the role of a “driver’s mate” to that of a “driver.”
This analogy suggests a desire for increased responsibility and authority within the government. Additionally, Dr. Tiah Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, the Vice President’s Technical Advisor, has argued that Dr. Bawumia’s role is primarily advisory, implying limitations in his ability to effect substantial change as he is not the President.
On the back of this, Mr Gyamfi said, “If the Vice President is a mere advisor, he is a mere agent, then my question is this, ‘how come in 2016, Dr Bawumia directed 170 questions to then Vice President and Chairman of the Economic Management Team, Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur?
“Paa Kwesi Amissah Arthur was vice? Was he not a mere agent of John Mahama per their logic?”
Economist Professor John Gatsi expressed skepticism regarding the feasibility of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, fulfilling his promise to eliminate the electronic financial transactions tax, known as the e-levy, along with four other taxes if elected as Ghana’s president.
Dr. Bawumia had committed to scrapping the e-levy and other taxes to promote the use of electronic payment channels.
Professor Gatsi countered this proposal, highlighting the challenge of implementation, given that the e-levy was introduced by the government to generate revenue, aligning with International Monetary Fund (IMF) requirements for an extended credit facility.
According to Professor Gatsi, Dr. Bawumia’s pledge is perceived as a political strategy aimed at enhancing his appeal to voters in the upcoming general elections.
The economist asserted that such a commitment would be impractical for the NPP’s flagbearer to fulfill if elected as president.
“I believe that all these discussions are going to be centered on 2025, and it is just a political strategy to make Bawumia look good for the election because you have already created a revenue stream for this government, and the IMF program will not end in 2025. So, to say, you need the same level of revenue to sustain the program. I don’t understand how you will be able to take one revenue source from the kitty and remain sustainable in the eyes of the IMF.”
“What Bawumia should be saying is that he will propose taxes A or B to replace the e-levy. If that is not what he is saying, then it is not something he can do, especially under the IMF programme.”
The National Youth Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), George Opare Addo also known as Pablo, has criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for not starting his address to the nation with an apology to Ghanaians for failing to deliver on numerous promises made prior to winning the elections in 2016.
Speaking at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra, Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the challenges faced by Ghanaians across various sectors.
He openly confessed to the hardships experienced by citizens, including soaring food prices, a sharp depreciation of the exchange rate, escalating fuel costs, and increased transportation fares.
Furthermore, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the adverse effects of the government’s debt restructuring program on bond holders, who suffered significant losses in their net worth.
On the country’s exchange rate depreciation, the Vice President noted that the loss of the local currency has slowed down sharply since February 2023.
In an interview on Citi TV, George Opare Addo noted that the acknowledgment by the Vice President is not enough to assuage the hearts of many Ghanaians who cast their ballots for the NPP and the entire public.
“Our situation is worse and what I was expected Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to do was apologize to the good people of this country.
We deserve an apology from Bawumia. The kind of things he said, the lies he told, the promises he made. You make all these promises, you don’t fulfill them and you have the nerves and effrontery to stand before us,” he said.
The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia-led government promised to address Ghana’s currency depreciation, inflation among others, but failed to do so.
According to the National Youth Organizer of the NDC, there is no salvation, as President Akufo-Addo has already given up in his quest to save the economy.
He remained skeptical of the role Vice President Bawumia could play to reverse Ghana’s economic challenges which have been exacerbated during his government.
“When the President of the Republic has already thrown in the towel is it the driver’s mate that will get us back on to the road? Akufo-Addo himself has told us it is game over,” he said.
While addressing the nation, Dr Bawumia drew an analogy between his current role as Vice-President and that of a driver’s mate, emphasizing that with the constitutional authority vested in the president, he envisions assuming the proverbial “driver’s seat” to steer the nation towards progress.
National Youth Organizer of the NDC, George Opare Addo, believes that Vice-President @MBawumia should have started his address by apologizing to Ghanaians for failing to fulfill his numerous promises prior to winning the elections in 2016
National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, revealed that he opted to watch a football match rather than listen to the lecture delivered by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia on February 7.
Asiedu Nketiah explained that he considered Nigeria’s semi-final match against South Africa in the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON) to be more significant and enjoyable than Dr. Bawumia’s lecture.
“I recorded it because Nigeria’s match was more important to me than what Bawumia had to say… The match was more entertaining than what Bawumia had to say; you know, it is hard to listen to lies.
“You get infuriated listening to lies so I recorded it and I’ve listened to some portions,” he stated.
Dr Bawumia, who is the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer, delivered a lecture on Wednesday dubbed “Ghana’s Next Chapter,” where he outlined his governance plans ahead of the 2024 presidential election.
As part of his vision, the vice president announced that he would reverse some controversial policies introduced by the government despite serving as vice president over the last seven years.
But according to Asiedu Nketiah, Dr. Bawumia’s attempt to shift blame on the president will not be entertained by the NDC, as the party will go all out to expose the vice president.
“This is just a precursor; we are coming to issue a major response to his statement and expose him properly. Because if you allow falsehood to lead the nation without acting against it, you are equally guilty of what is happening.
“So for us, we will keep speaking up and continue to remind him that where were you when we were fighting against E-Levy, Emission Tax, and VAT on Domestic Electricity?
“Recently, they forced through to approve the budget, which we denounced. Where are the people in the NPP now supporting Bawumia? Were they not in Parliament? What did they do? He cannot come and deceive us at all,” he told Kwame Nkrumah of Okay FM.
In recent times, the role of the government’s Economic Management Team (EMT) has been a focal point of discussion in light of Ghana’s current economic challenges, particularly under the leadership of Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia.
Dr Bawumia has been bashed for failing to live up to his promise to provide a progressive economy.
Traditionally, under the Fourth Republic, the vice president has been tasked with leading the EMT, which serves primarily as an advisory body to the president and is typically comprised of top economic and finance experts within the ruling party.
In the ongoing discourse between pro-government and opposition factions, there has been speculation regarding whether former Vice President John Mahama was ever appointed as the head of the EMT during his tenure under the late President John Evans Atta Mills.
This question appears to have been resolved with the circulation of a letter dated November 23, 2010, which indicates then Vice President John Mahama’s role on the team.
The letter, signed by the then Cabinet Secretary JK Berbaako-Mensah and copied to the Chief of Staff at the time, Henry Martey Newman, outlines the composition and responsibilities of the EMT.
It stipulates that the team, chaired by Mahama, was to convene at least once a month and included key figures such as the ministers of finance, energy, agriculture, trade and industry, as well as the Governor of the Bank of Ghana and other members of the government’s economic advisory board.
Controversial radio presenterBlakk Rasta has made a bold declaration, stating that he will leave the country if Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia emerges victorious in the upcoming presidential elections.
With campaign activities underway for both the New Patriotic Party and the National Democratic Congress, Blakk Rasta voiced his intentions during his Black Pot show on Thursday, February 8.
He asserted that he would relocate with his family and belongings, including his pets, and only return if Dr. Bawumia is voted out of power.
Expressing concerns about potential hardships under Dr. Bawumia’s leadership, Blakk Rasta emphasised his stance on the matter.
“If Bawumia wins the next election, I am out of this nation. I am carrying my children, I am carrying my dogs and my goats and every little thing out of this nation until Bawumia gets out of power. It means that we are numb to suffering,” he said on 3FM.
Blakk Rasta’s statement comes in the wake of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s address to Ghanaians regarding his presidential vision.
During his speech on Wednesday, February 7, Dr. Bawumia outlined numerous initiatives for the country’s future under his potential presidency. However, some of his proposals have sparked criticism from the public.
Many Ghanaians express concerns that Dr. Bawumia cannot distance himself from the perceived mismanagement of the economy since he is part of the current government.
Blakk Rasta’s remarks follow Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s speech to Ghanaians on his vision for the country’s future as president.
On Wednesday, February 7, Dr. Bawumia presented a number of initiatives for the country’s future under his potential presidency; however, some of his proposals have drawn criticism from the public.
Many Ghanaians are worried that since Dr. Bawumia is a member of the current government, he will be unable to distance himself from the alleged mismanagement of the economy.
A senior political science lecturer at the University of Ghana–Legon, Dr. Asah Asante, has advised Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to reconsider his proposal to abolish the National Service Scheme.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, addressing ministers, NPP leadership, and party supporters at UPSA in Accra, revealed his intention to make the National Service Scheme non-mandatory under his presidency, allowing students the choice to opt-out.
Expressing his dissent on the Morning Starr with Francis Abban, the senior political science lecturer contested the Vice President’s stance on the National Service Scheme.
“I disagree with him. The National Service, if you look at it carefully, is one of the areas that have come to support this government.
The government is running away simply because they have not been able to pay them and pay a realistic amount of money to them,” Dr. Asante asserted.
He highlighted the significant role the National Service Personnel Scheme plays in supporting rural areas facing human resource challenges.
Dr. Asante emphasized the potential for improvement rather than outright removal, stating, “I thought that we could have really improved it and made sure that they receive their allowances on time and then you direct them to another area.”
Dr. Asante urged the Vice President to reconsider and propose an alternative, emphasizing that discarding the National Service would result in a significant deficit in societal functioning.
“You go to certain rural areas you will realize their support. National Service plays a key role so why are you taking it away? I thought that we could have really improved it and made sure that they receive their allowances on time and then you direct them to another area”.
“I think that the Vice President must relook at that and come up with something else. Throwing National Service away no, it is going to be a big deficit in our way of life,” Dr. Asante stated.
A Research Fellow at the University of Ghana (UG) Legon, Dr. Michael Kpessa-Whyte, has criticized Ghana’s Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in response to his recent policy address ahead of the upcoming polls.
In his public address on February 7, 2024, Vice President Bawumia, who also serves as the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), disclosed his plans to abolish specific taxes, including the e-levy, emission levy, and bet taxes—taxes that were initiated during his administration.
Dr. Kpessa-Whyte expressed astonishment at the unusual scenario of a politician campaigning against his own policies while still in office. He characterized the vice president’s actions as a display of emptiness, questioning the credibility of Bawumia’s promises to abolish taxes that his government previously imposed.
In a statement shared on X on February 7, 2024, the research fellow remarked, “I have never seen any politician campaign against his own policies while still in power. You imposed pains on us through punitive taxes, and now you have the effrontery to blackmail us by claiming you will abolish the taxes when we make you president.”
He concluded with a sharp exclamation, “Emptiness on display!”
A male Ghanaian trader has expressed his dissatisfaction with Vice President Bawumia and believes that he should not run for reelection in 2024.
He made the comment after the Vice President’s recent address to the nation. The Vice President revealed his vision to ensure a cashless economy and ensure fiscal discipline among others, but the trader holds the assertion that the Vice President and NPP flagbearer is incapable of handling the economy.
He therefore Dr Bawumia to focus on his personal life rather than pursuing political ambitions.
“Bawumia should forget about the 2024 elections and go enjoy kenkey with Samira,” he remarked bitterly during an interview. “No one in the Greater Accra Region will vote for him. He should focus on his personal life instead.”
Reflecting on past years, he contrasted the affordability of life during Mahama’s tenure with the current economic challenges.
“I remember buying kenkey for just 2 cedis and fish for 3 cedis under Mahama’s leadership,” he recalled wistfully. “But now, even 25 cedis doesn’t stretch far enough.”
Despite facing personal struggles as a married father of three, the trader expressed unwavering support for Mahama, citing his dedication and resilience in the face of adversity.
“Mahama worked tirelessly for three years, even amidst legal battles,” he affirmed. “I will vote for him because of his proven commitment to our country.”
Turning his attention back to Bawumia, he voiced his frustration with the Vice President’s perceived lack of accountability.
“Where does Bawumia come from?” he questioned with a hint of disdain. “I call him Bawudonothing or Bawuliar. How can he claim Akufo-Addo did nothing, yet promise to fix it? It’s nothing but a lie.”
Meanwhile, Political Risk Analyst, Dr. Theo Acheampong, has suggested that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) being led by former President John Dramani Mahama will garner significant backing from swing voters during the 2024 elections.
In a post on X, Monday, February 5, Dr Acheamong noted that this assertion is not derived from a scientific approach but rather a hunch.
He explained that the NDC will beat the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Accra due to the high cost of living in the country’s capital, as well as corruption.
He wrote, “Swing voters in Greater Accra favouring Former President Mahama and the NDC; my hunch [unscientific opinion] is that the NDC will most likely win the Greater Accra region on account of recent economic issues [inflation & cost of living; DDEP, corruption perceptions, etc.].”
“There have been some economic improvements in recent months, and this is likely to be sustained in 2024 and beyond. However, I do wonder if this will be enough to change the minds of swing voters,” he added.
Since 2021, the prices of goods and services have been record-high. From over 50 percent inflation rate, Ghana is currently working a little over 20 percent.
With regards to corruption, reports indicate that the government has for the past four years, not done much to address the menace.
In the 2020 presidential elections, John Mahama, secured majority of the votes; 1,326,596, representing 51.04% while President Akufo-Addo polled 1,250,174 votes, representing 48.10%.
🇬🇭Ghana's 2024 Elections: Some Factors 🇬🇭
1. Swing voters: Swing voters in Greater Accra favouring Former President Mahama and the NDC; my hunch [unscientific opinion] is that the NDC will most likely win the Greater Accra region on account of recent economic issues [inflation &…
Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahumudu Bawumia, has declared his intention to introduce a credit card system should he win the upcoming December 7 elections.
He outlined that this system would be developed by utilizing existing data and infrastructure such as GhanaCard, GhanapostGPS, mobile money, DVLA, GRA, and bank accounts.
The proposed credit card system aims to facilitate purchases for workers, enabling them to acquire items like houses and cars on credit with reduced interest rates, as stated by the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
He elaborated that this initiative would reduce out-of-pocket expenses and enhance convenience for citizens. Dr. Bawumia made this revelation during his address to Ghanaians on Wednesday, February 7th.
“We look forward to starting individualised credit scoring in Ghana this year and this will make it easier for Ghanaians to access credit at lower interest rates.
“This will help build an efficient credit system and mortgage market in Ghana underpinned by individualised credit scoring and the digitalisation of land titling and transfer,” he stated.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has called upon Ghanaians to commend and acknowledge the efforts of the Bank of Ghana (BoG), which has faced unwarranted criticism while undertaking essential measures to stabilize the economy.
Dr. Bawumia highlighted the pivotal role played by the central bank in extending crucial financial support to the government during a critical period, preventing the economy from veering towards collapse.
“What the Bank of Ghana did was very responsible, in putting the interest of the good citizens of Ghana first”, he disclosed when addressing the nation.
The Vice President further emphasized that available data indicates that the financial assistance extended to the government by the Bank of Ghana was of a temporary nature.
Dr. Bawumia underscored that over the past seven years, the Bank of Ghana has not provided any financial support to the government in five of those years, namely 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2023.
The Vice President further emphasized that available data indicates that the financial assistance extended to the government by the Bank of Ghana was of a temporary nature.
Dr. Bawumia underscored that over the past seven years, the Bank of Ghana has not provided any financial support to the government in five of those years, namely 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2023.
The Bank of Ghana has consistently defended its decision to provide financial support to the government’s budget following the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, arguing that failure to do so would have had dire consequences for the economy.
Prior to the outbreak of Covid-19, the Central Bank adhered to a policy of refraining from financing the budget between 2015 and 2020.
However, this approach changed in the aftermath of the pandemic when the government faced challenges in generating sufficient revenue.
Speaking at the University of Ghana’s 75th Anniversary Public Lecture on “Ghana’s Economy: The Need for Paradigm Shift,” Dr. Philip Abradu-Otoo, Director of Research at the Bank of Ghana, explained that the central bank had no alternative but to intervene to prevent the economy from collapsing.
“So the Central Bank’s point of view, we realised we needed an economy to protect. So there were choices that had to be made, should we allow the economy to collapse or we should stick strictly to issues of fiscal dominance and then who picks up the pieces after the economy has collapsed”.
The Bank of Ghana’s Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year 2022 have revealed a significant loss of ¢60.8 billion. This substantial loss stands in stark contrast to the ¢1.2 billion profit recorded by the Central Bank in the previous year, 2021.
The report attributes this substantial loss to a decline in the Group’s net worth position, primarily due to the impact of the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) and impairment of certain assets.
Additionally, the report indicates that the total liabilities and subsidiaries of the Bank of Ghana exceeded its total assets by ¢54.52 billion during the reporting period.
This, among many other reasons were cited by the Minority in Parliament for the removal of BoG Governor, Dr Ernest Addison and his deputies. The Minority’s initiative is yet to see the light of day.
In contrast, in 2021, the Central Bank recorded a surplus of ¢5.72 billion, highlighting a significant shift in financial performance within a year.
The flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has declared that if elected as President in the upcoming December elections, Ghanaians can trust him to combat corruption.
He emphasized that he has never been implicated in any corruption scandal throughout his life and asserted that his personal integrity qualifies him to address and, if possible, eliminate corruption.
During a public address on Wednesday, February 7, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Dr. Bawumia committed to the digitalization of all state agencies as part of his strategy to curb corruption. He urged the public to consider him as the choice for someone with personal integrity, trustworthiness, and a dedication to fighting corruption.
Dr. Bawumia further reiterated his commitment to safeguarding the nation’s natural resources for the collective welfare of all citizens. He emphasized his dedication to ensuring that Ghana’s natural resources are utilized for the benefit of its people.
The current administration has faced criticism for perceived defense of officials accused of corruption, and the Office of the Special Prosecutor, established by the government, has been criticized for not meeting anticipated standards in its anti-corruption efforts.
Minister for Information, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, has come to the rescue of Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia who is being chided for absolving himself of blame with regards to the country’s current economic state.
Addressing a campaign event to unveil his vision for Ghana on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, Dr. Bawumia clarified his role as the head of the Economic Management Team (EMT), stating that it primarily served in an advisory capacity.
According to Dr. Bawumia, while the EMT offers guidance on economic policies, it lacks direct authority in their implementation. Nonetheless, he expressed pride in the advice provided to the policymakers.
Dr. Ato Forson, who leads the NDC MPs in Parliament, has vehemently denounced Dr. Bawumia’s assertions, dismissing them as false and unacceptable to the Ghanaian populace.
He argued that Dr. Bawumia’s remarks appeared to be nothing more than excuses for the shortcomings of the EMT, which have imposed significant burdens on the Ghanaian people.
But according to Mr Oppong-Nkrumah, the Vice President’s comments are not far from the truth. According to him, the Economic Management Team only prescribes recommendations to Cabinet which can be accepted or rejected.
According to him, it is President Akufo-Addo who has the final say on matter and not Dr Bawumia.
“It is in the Akufo-Addo administration that you have heard a lot about the economic management team. The economic management team functions as one of the, lack of better words, subcommittee’s of cabinet.
“And the team comprising mostly Ministers in the economic sector, and some advisors come together, examine memos that may come before it and go to cabinet with recommendations. Some of those recommendations may be accepted, some of them may not be accepted.
“Cabinet will then proger advice to the president. Our cabinet here is Ghana is an advisory body. When cabinet profers advice to the president and there is no objection, I’ll show you one trick to examine. You’d notice that when the document supporting whatever it was comes to Parliament, they’d say it came by Parliament approval.There are many time cabinet approval is not required or sought.
“The mere fact that someone has been Chairman of the Economic Management Team doesn’t mean he is the Executive president, that he is taking the final decisions,” the Minister explained in an interview on JoyFM.
"Our cabinet here in Ghana is an advisory body & the mere fact that someone has been chairman of the EMT doesn’t mean he is taking the final decision."
The Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has launched a scathing critique against Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for his recent statements regarding the authority of the Economic Management Team (EMT), chaired by Dr. Bawumia himself.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has provided clarification regarding the authority of the Economic Management Team (EMT), which he chaired, emphasizing that it lacked decision-making power.
In his remarks delivered at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, on Wednesday, February 7, Dr. Bawumia highlighted that the EMT operated as a sub-committee of the cabinet, where its role was limited to offering recommendations rather than implementing them.
As he outlined his vision for the nation and his aspirations for leadership, Dr. Bawumia underscored his intention to leverage decision-making authority effectively once elected as President.
“I was, thankfully, appointed as Chairman of the Economic Management Team (EMT). As a sub-committee to the Cabinet, we do not have any decision-making powers, but I am very proud of the quality of advice we have been providing over the years to the Cabinet,” he stressed.
Dr. Ato Forson, who leads the NDC MPs in Parliament, has vehemently denounced Dr. Bawumia’s assertions, dismissing them as false and unacceptable to the Ghanaian populace.
He argued that Dr. Bawumia’s remarks appeared to be nothing more than excuses for the shortcomings of the EMT, which have imposed significant burdens on the Ghanaian people.
In a social media post, the former Deputy Finance Minister emphasized the vigilance of Ghanaians, stating that they would not be swayed by Dr. Bawumia’s rhetoric.
Dr. Ato Forson urged the Vice President to assume responsibility for the failed policies under his leadership and to implement any improved strategies he may have, rather than focusing on aspirations for the presidency.
“How come Dr. Bawumia is now downplaying the role of the Economic Management Team and his chairmanship at a time when the full impact of the government’s bad economic policies is adversely impacting the people of Ghana and Ghanaians are facing excruciating hardships? Why is Dr. Bawumia running away from his role and making it look as though he has something new to offer the people of Ghana?”
“For the record, Dr. Bawumia superintends the Economic Management Team, where all key decisions regarding the national economy are taken.”
“These decisions are then taken to Cabinet, where Dr. Bawumia justifies them with the Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta for approval,” he said.
As Vice President, Dr. Bawumia has the power to remove these taxes. This is because he is the chairman of the Economic Management Team of the government and the second in command at Cabinet. He also chairs Cabinet in the absence of the President. In fact, during Cabinet meetings,…
Following Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s speech about Ghana’s digitalization plans at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra, a netizen responded in a humorous yet critical manner on social media.
The X user, @fixondennis, shared a photo of a unique breakfast creation called the “Ghanacard-wich,” which featured a Ghana card sandwiched between slices of bread.
This playful jab at Dr Bawumia’s emphasis on the Ghana card’s role in fighting corruption and identity fraud in the informal economy serves as a witty commentary.
The netizen sarcastically suggests that since Dr Bawumia values the Ghana card so highly, it could even become a regular ingredient in his breakfast.
Economist Dr. Adu Owusu Sarkodie has expressed satisfaction with a speech by New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, stating that it left him feeling well-rested.
In an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem Thursday, Dr. Sarkodie acknowledged Bawumia‘s digitization initiatives as a positive step forward, emphasizing that the presented ideas weren’t new to experts like him who had extensively discussed tax-related matters.
“I slept well after listening to Bawumia. He shouldn’t be blamed for everything” he said in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem Thursday.
In the address titled ‘Bawumia Speaks,’ the Vice President pledged to remove certain tax policies, including the controversial E-Levy, Emission Tax, and the 15% VAT on electricity.
While some praise these commitments, skeptics question why these taxes are proposed for removal when implemented by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
As an economist, Dr. Sarkodie believes Dr. Bawumia is prepared to address tax regimes to prevent adverse effects on the economy.
He considers the Vice President’s decision to abolish the E-Levy and other taxes, if elected President, as a divine blessing and commends Bawumia’s vision for a modern system. Dr. Sarkodie reiterates that the proposed tax regime reforms will contribute to economic recovery.
Ghanaian influencer Joshua Buernortey Boye-Doe, widely recognized as KalyJay, has not minced words in his critique of Vice President Dr Bawumia, suggesting that his recent statements implied a failure on the part of President Nana Akufo-Addo or a lack of competence during his tenure as Vice President.
During his address at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra, Dr. Bawumia clarified that the Economic Management Team (EMT), over which he presided, lacked decision-making authority.
He explained that the EMT, functioning as a sub-committee of cabinet, could only provide recommendations rather than enact them.
He made a candid acknowledgment of the economic challenges that have plagued Ghana in recent years.
“Indeed, Ghanaians were hit by rising food prices, increased exchange rate depreciation, rising fuel prices, and rising transport fares. Bond holders also saw a sharp decline in their net worth following the painful debt restructuring programme.”
“We faced very challenging times,” he added.
In reaction, KalyJay noted that “Basically what Bawumia is saying is that Nana Addo has failed as a President or he Bawumia was not a competent Vice President.”
Basically what Bawumia is saying is that Nana Addo has failed as a President or he Bawumia was not a competent Vice President.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has also announced his intention to abolish the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-levy) if elected President after the 2024 general elections.
The Vice President noted that the removal of the levy is towards improving the government’s cashless economy agenda.
Also in reaction to this, KalyJay has quizzed the Vice President if the cashless economy agenda was not in existent when the levy was passed.
He also asked how the government was going pay back the International Monetary Fund (IMF) the $3 billion loan should it scrap the levy which was introduced to rake in revenue to support the loan payment.
You go to the IMF for loan. the conditions you claim was given to you was that you should be able to raise revenue to pay back the loan. You introduced E-Levy using this excuse. Today u are saying if we vote for you, you will remove the E-Levy.
A Political Science Lecturer at the University of Ghana, Professor Ransford Gyampo, has asserted that certain elements of the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer’s address have substantiated the concerns raised by his critics.
In an analysis of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s speech on Wednesday, February 7, Gyampo stated, “Parts of the presentation were an indictment on the government of which he is part, in a manner that raises serious questions and vindicates those of us who have been critics of the government.”
He specifically highlighted the contradiction in pledging not to have more than 50 ministers while being part of a government that currently comprises over 100 ministers. Additionally, Gyampo pointed out the flagbearer’s promise to abolish certain taxes, including the Emissions tax, Gaming Tax, E-Levy, and VAT on electricity consumption.
According to Gyampo, these promises align with the criticisms he and others have raised regarding the need to streamline the size of the government and eliminate what he terms “nuisance taxes.”
Reflecting on the past, Gyampo noted that supporters of the flagbearer had previously criticized and opposed similar critiques raised by him and others.
He posed a rhetorical question, wondering whether these supporters would now direct their criticisms toward the flagbearer himself, considering his current stance that seemingly aligns with the earlier calls for downsizing the government and eliminating what he deems as burdensome taxes.
Below is Professor Gyampo’s full speech
Bawumia’s Address – A Preliminary Analysis
1. This essentially was an articulation of achievements and vision, fundamentally in the broader area of Digitization and honestly, the various manifestations of this overarching policy, and what it can do to promote development, is indubitable and enormous. No doubt it formed the interwoven central theme of the presentation.
2. Unfortunately, Ghanaians had to wait to be told more about what digitization has done for them by the man himself, in a manner that makes many of the achievements which should have been long known, sound new. Consequently, there may be the need to fact-check many of the claims in order to be sure.
3. It appears DMB is the only one who has a firm grasp over the policy, as the party itself has either been ignorant about the claims about Digitization or has been incompetent in communicating its achievements to fester in the psyche of Ghanaians. Unless the party begins to undertake remedial tutorials about Digitization and its achievements for the purposes of political communication, the work will be difficult for DMB.
4. Despite what it can do, Digitization is not the sine qua non to development. Other key interventions such as good governance and deliberate efforts to seal the leakages and slippages, fight corruption, exemplary leadership that first tightens its belt, rather than living bourgeoisie, etc should have been emphasized more than being treated nearly as appendages.
5. Parts of the presentation was an indictment on the government of which he is part, in a manner that raises serious questions and vindicates those of us who have been critics of the government. Promising to have not more than 50 Ministers when you are part of a government of over 100 Ministers; and promising to abolish some taxes like the Emissions tax, Gaming Tax, E-Levy, VAT on electricity consumption etc makes some of us feel vindicated for criticizing and calling for downsizing of government and the abolition of such nuisance taxes. DMB’s supporters came after us for such criticisms and I am wondering whether they will go after him, now that he’s taken a position that responds favorably to our criticisms on the size of government and nuisance taxes.
6. But the more important question is, why do these great interventions tomorrow, instead of today that they are greatly needed? Does the answer still lie in the claim that he’s not the one in charge? Well, in that case, then karma is not good at all. There was then absolutely no basis for the 170 questions posed to Veep Amissah-Arthur because, he was also a mate and wasn’t in charge.
7. DMB still blames our challenges on COVID and Russian-Ukraine war and there is no doubt at all that these have had negative effects on many countries including Ghana. But a more convincing explanation could have also focused on an admission of what was done wrong domestically, and a promise to refrain from our own contributions to the challenges. It cannot be entirely accurate for us to blame all other than ourselves for our challenges.
8. Finally, there were great ideas that were espoused including the need for a national development plan, a move that was initiated by the predecessor government but was jettisoned. All the other contenders in the 2024 elections also have great plans. But it appears great plans wouldn’t really matter. Available empirical survey reports show that many Ghanaians now, do not believe in political promises, as many of them are merely vote garnering gimmicks. What would therefore be the decider in the 2024 elections, would be a side by side comparison of the trustworthiness, credibility and achievements of the various contenders.
In my next post, I will now offer a sharper focus and properly interrogate some of the policy vision outlined. Where they deserve commendations, we would commend and where they must be fact-checked and critiqued, we will do so.
Yaw Gyampo A31, Prabiw PAV Ansah Street Saltpond & Suro Nipa House Behind Old Post Office Larteh-Akuapim
The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, has proposed a debate between Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and former President John Mahama.
Mr. Boasiako believes this debate will settle the question of incompetence between the two statesmen, as they will be required to provide evidence of their work. Chairman Wontumi has expressed his willingness to host the debate on one of his media platforms.
“I own Wontumi TV in Kumasi. I own Movement TV in Accra. I own Western Diamond in Takoradi. I can’t wait for the day all these precious media will call for one-on-one interview with Dr Mahamudu Bawumia and John Dramani Mahama for debate and for everybody to listen to them on what you have done and what you want to do. It is not about talking. It is too cheap,” he said.
Dr. Bawumia has repeatedly criticized Mr. Mahama as incompetent, highlighting that despite three decades in active politics, the former president and NDC flagbearer lacks tangible policies for transforming the country.
On the other side of the political spectrum, Stan Dogbe, a former presidential staffer during John Mahama’s administration, contends that Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia’s perceived competence has dwindled. Dogbe asserts that the Vice President is “simply not fit for purpose.”
The upcoming 2024 presidential race will see Vice President Dr. Bawumia and former President Mahama compete head-to-head, setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown.
Chairman Wontumi of the NPP is calling for a debate between Vice President Bawumia and former President Mahama on his media platform, emphasizing that "talk is cheap" and believing the debate will reveal their true competence. pic.twitter.com/b3O6g5aPu0
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has emphasized the importance of combating fiscal indiscipline to prevent macroeconomic instability.
During his address to the nation on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, he outlined a series of measures that his government would implement to achieve this goal.
Among these measures, Dr. Bawumia highlighted plans to amend the Fiscal Responsibility Act and collaborate with the private sector to finance projects. These steps aim to tighten government spending and promote fiscal discipline, ultimately safeguarding the country’s economic stability.
He noted that his government would stop purchasing vehicles and would rather lease them.
“The government will move towards leasing rather than purchasing vehicles, printing equipment, etc,” he said.
He noted that his administration will incentivize the private sector to build roads, schools, hostels, and houses for government to rent or lease to own.
He continued, “The demand for road construction is massive and this has historically placed a huge burden on the budget.”
“I believe that the private sector should finance the construction and maintenance of roads through PPP concession arrangements. Also, the government will move towards leasing rather than purchasing vehicles, printing equipment, etc. The private sector will have the responsibility for maintaining the equipment.”
“With this approach, the budget can save very significant outright cash expenditure annually from various items across different Ministries, Departments and Agencies. This policy will energise the private sector and create many jobs.”
The Vice President and 2024 flagbearer of the NPP, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has unveiled an ambitious plan aimed at fostering digital transformation in Ghana.
Central to his vision is the goal of cultivating approximately one million Ghanaian digital talents as part of his transformative Digital Ghana initiative.
During his address to the nation yesterday, where he outlined his vision and priorities if elected President, Dr. Bawumia emphasized his commitment to building a Digital Ghana.
This vision entails leveraging technology to revolutionize key sectors of the economy, including agriculture, healthcare, education, manufacturing, and finance, ultimately leading to a prosperous digital economy. Furthermore, this initiative aims to position Ghana as a digital hub while generating employment opportunities for the youth.
To facilitate the realization of the Digital Ghana vision, Dr. Bawumia outlined plans to train a minimum of 200,000 young individuals annually in digital software skills.
He emphasized that this initiative will not only equip them with skills for employment within Ghana but also prepare them for opportunities in the global digital market.
“I want to see Ghana build the digital talent we require for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This will mean providing digital and software skills to hundreds of thousands of youth.
“In collaboration with the private sector, we will train at least 200,000 youth per year for the next five years. This, along with other policies, will create jobs for the youth, including school dropouts.”
“I also want to enhance the repositioning of the education system towards STEM, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and vocational skills to cope with the demands of the fourth Industrial Revolution and job creation.
“In collaboration with the private sector, we will aim to train at least 1,000,000 software developers in five years (200,000 per year). As software developers. They will have job opportunities worldwide.”
Dr. Bawumia exuded confidence in the talent and potential of Ghanaians, asserting that they possess the capability to excel globally in numerous fields. However, he lamented that this potential is often hindered by pessimism and a mindset that views achievements as impossible.
In response, Dr. Bawumia pledged that his government would lead the charge in promoting a mindset of possibilities among Ghanaians. By fostering a culture that encourages innovation, creativity, and determination, he aims to unlock the full potential of every Ghanaian, enabling them to thrive and excel in their respective endeavors.
“I want to encourage Ghanaians to have a mindset of possibilities and not impossibilities,” he said.
“The challenges we must overcome as a country are too important to let our political differences derail us. There is a critical failure of mindset that manifests itself in the absence of core values, patriotism and principles within our society. We need to invigorate the can-do spirit of the Ghanaian to believe that we can even do better than the advanced countries if we put our minds to it.”
“For example, our students from Mamfe Girls and Prempeh College have won international robotic competitions against their peers in the US, Germany and South Korea. We have to apply the same mindset of beating the world in robotics, singathons and cookathons to every sphere of activity. We must believe IT IS POSSIBLE!”
“This must be inculcated in our children from school. This is why we are going to introduce a growth mindset curriculum to help students build critical skills such as problem-solving, risk-taking, opportunity spotting and design thinking.”
Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, unveiled his government’s ambitious initiative to bring the benefits of the diaspora, often referred to as ‘abrokyire,’ to Ghana.
This announcement took place at the Kofi Ohene Konadu Auditorium of the University of Professional Studies, Accra on February 7, 2024.
Dr. Bawumia elaborated on his government’s achievement in seamlessly integrating the births and deaths registry with the National Identification Authority, ensuring uniformity and coherence across all databases.
“Starting this quarter, newborn children in Ghana will be given a Ghana card number. But the actual Ghana card will be issued when the child is 6 years old,” he said.
“So we are bringing ‘abrokyire’ to Ghana,” he declared.
This marked Dr. Bawumia’s inaugural public address following his victory in the NPP presidential primary, where he secured 61.43% of the votes cast by nearly 200,000 NPP delegates nationwide on November 4, 2023.
As the party’s flagbearer, he now stands poised to contest in the upcoming 2024 general election.
In this electoral battle, Dr. Bawumia will confront formidable opponents, including former president and NDC flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, and the leader of the Movement for Change, Alan Kyeremanten.
The stage is set for a keenly contested election, with each candidate vying to secure the trust and support of the Ghanaian electorate.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia clarified his role as the chairman of the Economic Management Team (EMT), stating that he lacked the authority to make decisions.
Addressing the nation on Wednesday, January 7, 2024, during his presentation as the flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party, Dr. Bawumia emphasized that the EMT, as a sub-committee to Cabinet, did not possess decision-making powers.
“I am grateful to have been appointed as Chairman of the Economic Management Team (EMT). However, we do not wield any decision-making authority as a sub-committee to Cabinet,” he remarked.
Dr. Bawumia underscored that his role primarily involved offering advice to the President’s Cabinet, expressing pride in the quality of counsel provided over the years.
Despite the limitations, he noted being tasked by the President to address impediments to Ghana’s economic transformation.
“My focus has been on formalizing the economy through digitalization, as outlined in our 2016 manifesto. This explains why my office has overseen numerous government digitalization projects,” he elaborated.
Dr. Bawumia emphasized the necessity of robust systems and institutions for building a vibrant, modern nation, questioning Ghana’s readiness for the impending transformation brought about by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Highlighting Ghana’s digitalization efforts, he emphasized the importance of preparing the nation to compete effectively as Africa emerges as the largest single market globally, with a population of 1.4 billion people.
Leader of the Movement For Change, Alan Kyerematen, has once again criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for attempting to distance himself from the failures of the government.
Mr Kyerematen emphasized that as the presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Bawumia cannot evade accountability for the current economic challenges, as he is an integral part of the cabinet’s decision-making process.
The former Trade Minister asserted that Dr. Bawumia has had numerous opportunities, provided by President Akufo-Addo, to implement his ideas and visions for the nation.
Therefore, any attempts by Dr. Bawumia to dissociate himself from the government’s shortcomings would be futile. Kyerematen made these remarks during an interview with Citi TV on Wednesday, February 7.
“This theory that if you are vice president you don’t have the leverage to do anything, that is not true. In the case of late former President J.E Mills, he literally gave everything to then vice president Mahama, every opportunity to lead processes. It is the same thing, President Akufo-Addo has also given the vice president [Dr Bawumia] every opportunity to lead processes of governance.”
While acknowledging his involvement in the mismanagement of the economy during his tenure as Trade Minister until his resignation in September 2023, when he parted ways with the New Patriotic Party, the former Trade and Industry Minister emphasized the importance of his capacity as a change agent.
Despite his role in the economic challenges, he highlighted his commitment to driving positive change and addressing the nation’s issues moving forward.
“There’s no doubt about that, how is it even possible to deny that you have been a minister and say that you are not part of a system?
“But that is not the case, you are talking about being a minister, governments are not run by ministers. It’s about the executive authority at the highest level. You provide the direction as a minister,” he admitted.
Vice President and Flagbearer of the NPP, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has announced plans for a substantial overhaul in sports funding under his government to propel Ghana towards modern sports development.
Speaking on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, as he unveiled his vision for Ghana, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the failure of Ghanaian sports to realize its full potential. He pinpointed inadequate and unsustainable funding as a primary obstacle hindering progress in the sector.
“Sports is a multi-million dollar industry and an enabler for the youth,” Dr. Bawumia said.
“However, we have not realized our full sports potential, and we cannot maximize the full potential of Ghana sports, with the same funding module we have operated with since independence.”
In his vision for the development of sports in Ghana, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of implementing policies, tax adjustments, and other incentives aimed at fostering increased private and public investment in the sector.
As part of his plan, he intends to prioritize measures that will create an environment conducive to attracting more financial support, both from private entities and the government, ultimately aiming to facilitate the thriving growth of sports in the country.
“My government will therefore, prioritise the creation of incentives for corporate sponsorship as a sustainable module of financing sports development and promotion for our national teams, including football, athletics and boxing at all levels.”
“This will take the financial pressure off government, and also enable government to redirect more support to other sports disciplines.”
Spokesperson for Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Gideon Boako, has clarified the rationale behind his boss’ decision to pursue policies that diverge from those of the incumbent Akufo-Addo government should he become President.
Mr Boako stressed that advocating for a new vision doesn’t necessarily entail criticism of the current administration’s policies.
He explained that while Vice President Bawumia has played a significant role in the current administration, his constitutional powers are limited, preventing him from fully implementing his own visions and beliefs.
As the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Bawumia aims to chart a different course for Ghana if elected, reflecting his distinct vision for the country.
“Every leader has his or her vision that is why we say “new king, new law”. And the Vice President premised his vision on something he said “the circumstances and instances that occasioned certain dreams and visions of the incumbent government will be different than the circumstances that will exist when he becomes president. And therefore, there are some good footprints of this government that he is going to continue with.””
During the launch of his campaign titled “Bawumia Speaks,” Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia made several promises, including the removal of certain tax policies such as the controversial E-Levy, emission tax, and the 15% VAT on electricity.
While many have praised these commitments, others remain skeptical. Critics question why Bawumia seeks to eliminate these taxes when President Akufo-Addo oversaw their implementation.
In response to these queries, Dr. Bawumia’s spokesperson, speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, reiterated that the Vice President’s role primarily involved offering advice on economic management. Therefore, there is no inconsistency in him presenting new visions for the country, distinct from the current administration’s policies.
“So if your boss has a vision and you say that given the opportunity this is the way I want to go, you are not necessarily saying that what your boss is doing is wrong.
“It could also be that there are some limitations in terms of implementation with the vision that is currently being implemented but we should not conclude that because Vice President Bawumia is showing some policy departure from what is being done today means there is something wrong,” he said on Wednesday.
Former President John Agyekum Kufour has thrown his support behind Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, endorsing him as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) new flagbearer and labeling him a “man of destiny.”
President Kufour urged the nation to unite behind Bawumia in the forthcoming elections.
The endorsement was delivered during the Bawumia Speaks event, held at the UPSA auditorium in Accra, where Dr. Bawumia was inaugurated and presented his vision for the party’s future.
President Kufour, speaking fervently about his confidence in Bawumia’s leadership abilities, recounted a personal encounter dating back to 2002 when he first met the now-NPP flagbearer.
At that time, Dr. Bawumia was serving as a research assistant for the governor of the Bank of Ghana in London.
“I have come to bear witness to the candidate who is being inaugurated today. I have always seen him as a man of destiny. When I first saw him in 2002, he was just a research assistant for the governor of the Bank of Ghana in London,” President Kufour remarked.
President Kufour recalled the incident and said he saw Bawumia’s potential during a speech and predicted the young man would have a bright future.
“I sent somebody to go and call him, and I told him, ‘Carry on like that and you will go far.’ In 2008, Akufo Addo picked him as his running mate, and today we have all gathered here to launch him as our flagbearer for NPP,” he continued.
Emphasizing the importance of leadership in the digital age, President Kufour highlighted Bawumia’s performance in areas such as digitization and geopolitics. “Leadership around the world is growing, and without digitalization, you may be found wanting. Digitalization, Geopolitics, and we have seen him perform loyally,” President Kufour stated.
Addressing the nation’s current challenges, President Kufour urged Ghanaians to vote for Bawumia, emphasizing the need for visionary leadership. “Ghana has come to a crossroads, and we want a leadership with a vision who can pick the requisite manpower to develop the nation. I am appealing to the whole nation to vote for him. He is definitely the man of the moment, and we must accept him,” he concluded.
Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has expressed the view that Ghana stands at a critical juncture, necessitating the election of a forward-thinking leader like Mahamudu Bawumia to steer the nation in the upcoming December elections.
Kufuor highlighted Bawumia’s commendable track record as a diligent and devoted vice-president to President Akufo-Addo over the past eight years, underscoring the importance of granting him an opportunity to lead.
These sentiments were shared by Kufuor during a speech delivered on Wednesday, February 7, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), coinciding with Vice-President Bawumia’s presentation of his vision for the country as the governing NPP’s presidential candidate for the 2024 elections.
“Ghana has come to a crossroads, and I’m serious here. It is not the normal regular politics we want, we want a leadership with a vision even in the complex world I have talked about.”
” A leader that will be able to marshal the new technologies and pick the requisite manpower … we must get people of competence to work with him to find our way out of the confusion our society and economy has been plunged into, I wouldn’t blame any side,” he said.
Kufour added “If you look at the track record of all the parties, you can’t find one that can say that in their time, they were excellent or superb, no. We are in a new situation, and I believe in the situation and I believe in the saying that “cometh the hour, cometh the man”.”
The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has asserted that the Akufo-Addo administration has outperformed all others in job creation, generating a remarkable 2.1 million jobs amid the global economic crisis from 2017 to 2022.
Speaking at the UPSA auditorium in Accra, Vice President Bawumia highlighted the government’s achievements, noting the recruitment of 100,000 additional health workers, a similar number of teachers, and a doubling of fire service personnel recruitment.
He underscored the government’s success in creating jobs, with 1.2 million hires in the public sector and 975,000 in the private sector, according to SSNIT data.
“What is probably the most remarkable development in terms of the economy is that our government has created 2.1 million jobs between 2017 and 2022 notwithstanding the global economic crisis. The public sector recruited 1.2 million people while the private sector created 975,000 jobs (per SSNIT data) . We recruited 100,000 more health workers, 100,000 more teachers, more than doubled the fire service personnel, etc. Our government has quite clearly created more jobs in a seven year period than any government. This is truly remarkable under the circumstances even though we still have to create more jobs,” he remarked.
Despite the economic challenges, Vice President Bawumia emphasized the government’s adept navigation, steering the nation away from catastrophe.
He pointed to the resilient performance of the economy in various aspects, including GDP growth, agricultural and industrial expansion, trade balance, gross international reserves, and notable job creation.
Acknowledging the need for continued job creation, Vice President Bawumia expressed the government’s commitment to enhancing its achievements.
“Clearly notwithstanding the economic crisis, this government has been able to steer the ship of the nation away from catastrophe. In the face of the crisis, the overall performance of the economy in areas such as GDP Growth, agricultural growth, industrial growth, trade balance, gross international reserves and job creation demonstrated resilience. Available data also shows that notwithstanding the challenging economy we inherited, and the global economic crisis that ensued, government has chalked a large number of achievements across the country. Due to time constraints.”
He teased the forthcoming release of the “Performance Tracker,” detailing accomplishments across sectors and districts in Ghana. The tracker aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the government’s contributions to the nation’s development.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has emphasized the importance of recognizing the significant repercussions of the two major global events, namely the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war, on Ghana’s economy.
Despite the weariness among Ghanaians of hearing about these issues, Dr. Bawumia stressed the necessity of acknowledging their dire impact.
“Between 2020 and 2022, we experienced severe challenges, triggered by the pandemic which brought the world and our country to a thundering halt. We may be tired of hearing it but there is no avoiding the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Russia-Ukraine war, resulted in the greatest economic depression in the world since the 1930s, with most countries recording negative GDP growth,” Dr Bawumia indicated in his address to the nation as 2024 flagbearer of the NPP.
He also noted that his government will implement a policy where the government grants forgiveness or relief from tax penalties to businesses.
This will allow businesses to settle their outstanding tax liabilities without facing additional penalties or legal consequences.
“Government will provide a tax amnesty (i.e., a complete exemption from the payment of taxes for a specified period and the waiving of interest and penalties) up to a certain year to individuals and businesses for failures to file taxes in previous years so that everyone will start afresh,” he said.
In a bold declaration, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has announced his intention to abolish the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-levy) if elected President.
Addressing the nation at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra today, the Vice President noted that the removal of the levy will aid government’s cashless economy agenda.
“To move towards a cashless economy however, we have to encourage the population to use electronic channels of payment. To accomplish this, there will be no taxes on digital payments under my administration. The e-levy will therefore be abolished.
This announcement comes in the wake of the enactment of the Electronic Transfer Levy Act, 2022, by the Parliament of Ghana.
The Electronic Transfer Levy Act, 2022, was passed with the aim of regulating and imposing a levy on all electronically transferred monies in Ghana.
This move was part of the government’s efforts to broaden the country’s tax base and increase revenue mobilization. Initially, the levy was set at 1.50% on all electronic transfers, but following criticism from the Minority in Parliament and the general public, the government revised the rate to 1 percent.
Despite the adjustment, Vice President Bawumia has made it clear that he is committed to abolishing the E-levy altogether if he assumes the presidency.
This declaration echoes similar promises made by the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, who has also pledged to abolish the 1% Electronic Levy if elected.
Speaking at the 75th New Year school event at the University of Ghana, he reiterated the levy was a burden.
“This is an inequitable tax, it’s not fair and prevents people from the uptake of moving towards a cashless society and so when NDC comes we would remove that tax,” he said.
With both major political parties vying for the support of the Ghanaian electorate, the issue of the E-levy is expected to feature prominently in the upcoming presidential election.
Voters will likely weigh the promises of each candidate regarding taxation and economic policies as they decide who to support in the polls.
In a significant policy announcement, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is also the flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has pledged to make National Service optional if elected president.
This means that individuals who graduate from tertiary institutions will no longer be mandated to offer their service to the country, as is currently being done.
During his address at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra, Dr. Bawumia said, “National Service will no longer be mandatory. And students will have the option to decide whether to do national service or not.”
According to the Vice President, this will help the youth get jobs since companies will be encouraged to go to campuses for recruitment annually.
He was emphatic that “My government will propose that those who after completion of their education can secure jobs would be exempted from National Service.”
The National Service programme is a compulsory one-year service required of all citizens of Ghana who are 18 years and above, at the time of deployment. The Scheme which started in 1973 now operates under Act 426 (of 1980).
Personnel who did the one-year non-graduate service shall be required to undertake one year post-tertiary national service.
National Service Personnel shall be entitled to the payment of monthly allowances, the level of which shall be determined by the Ministry of Finance.
In July 2023, Management of the National Service Scheme (NSS) secured government approval for upward adjustment of monthly allowances for National Service Personnel from GHS559.04 to GHS715.57, with effect from January, 2023.
The approval, which was contained in a letter dated 18th July, 2023 and signed by the Deputy Minister for Finance, Hon. Abena Osei-Asare (MP), was as a result of series of engagements between National Service Scheme, Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, and the Ministry of Finance.
For over 5 years, service personnel received GHC559, thus the news was welcomed. But after this news, NSS personnel continue to criticise the government for delay in payment of allowance.
Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has noted that Ghana’s debt-to-GDP ratio as of 2023 stood at 66.4 percent.
This is marginal growth following the 76.6% recorded in 2021.
The debt-to-GDP ratio is a measure used to assess a country’s debt burden relative to its economic output. A higher ratio suggests that the country may have difficulty servicing its debt obligations, while a lower ratio indicates a healthier fiscal position.
Addressing the nation on his vision for Ghana while speaking at the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) in Accra today said macroeconomic variable “shows that the economy is recovering from the crisis we faced.”
Inflation has declined from 54% in January to 23% in December 2023. Economic growth is rebounding, spending is under control with the fiscal deficit as a percentage of GDP has declined from 10.8% in 2020 to 4.2% in 2023.
On the country’s exchange rate depreciation, the Vice President noted that the loss of the local currency has slowed down sharply since February 2023.
“Whereas the exchange rate depreciated by 30% in 2022, between February and December 2023, it only depreciated by 9%,” he added.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecast a decline in Ghana’s debt-to-Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio from 92.4% in 2022 to 84.9% in 2023.
According to its October 2023 Fiscal Monitor, the country’s total debt-to-GDP ratio is expected to fall consistently in the next five years.
In 2024, the debt-to-GDP ratio is estimated at 81.5%, whilst that of 2025, 2026, 2027 and 2028 are pegged at 78.8%, 75.8%, 72.8% and 70.0%.
This will follow the expected external debt restructuring where the country’s debt is expected to go down.
Vice president, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has stated that during the height of the global health crisis, posed by the COVID-19 pandemic the government implemented a comprehensive plan to support citizens, offering free water and free electricity to all households for an entire year.
Addressing the nation on Wednesday, February 7, 2023, he added that life line consumers benefited from free electricity, while others enjoyed a substantial 50% discount, providing much-needed financial relief to families and businesses.
According to him, Despite the economic strain posed by COVID-19, the government prioritized ensuring essential services remained accessible to all citizens.
“Provided free water to all households for a whole year during COVID-19 We provided free electricity to life line consumers and a 50% discount to other consumers for a whole year during COVID-19. It is important to note that between 2009 and 2016, the average annual increase in end user electricity tariffs was 50% per year!
“Between 2017 and 2023 on the other hand, the average annual increase was 11.1%. This is the lowest annual average increase in electricity tariffs for any government since 1992. We abolished or reduced 21 separate taxes in our first term (before the global crisis). We also reduced import duties by 50% between 2019 and 2021 even though traders did not reduce prices for consumers as they promised to do,” he added.
Vice President Bawumia also shed light on the government’s commitment to economic reforms, citing the abolition or reduction of 21 separate taxes during the first term, preceding the global crisis.
Import duties were also reduced by 50% between 2019 and 2021, demonstrating the government’s dedication to fostering economic resilience.
“Between 2009 and 2016, the average annual increase in end-user electricity tariffs skyrocketed to 50% per year. In a marked departure from this trend, from 2017 to 2023, the average annual increase was significantly reduced to 11.1%, representing the lowest annual average increase in electricity tariffs for any government since 1992,” he added.
